City Manager seeking new job as election nears

Published 7:00 pm, Saturday, May 8, 2004

Lonon was one of three people interviewed Thursday to manage the city of Cedar Park, northwest of the state capital.

Although Lonon did not return numerous calls placed to his cell phone by The Courier Friday, his search likely stems from one candidate's promise to axe him if elected May 15.

Conroe businessman Tommy Metcalf started advocating Lonon's removal early this year, alleging negligence during the construction of several projects and chastising him for a negative managerial style.

"I wish him the best of luck (with the job)," Metcalf said Friday.

Cedar Park Mayor Pro-Tem Phil Duprey said the City Council will discuss the position at its next meeting Thursday.

However, it is not certain a candidate will be selected during that meeting, Duprey said.

Jack Hamlett, of Seguin, and Tom Mattis, of Kyle, also are interviewing for the Cedar Park city manager position.

Duprey said Cedar Park's former city manager, Robert Powers, who left in April, earned $120,000. Lonon currently earns $138,000.

"The trend is for city managers to last about three to five years, which is what we have experienced here," Duprey said. "But as I understand it, Craig has been there for about 10 (years), which means he must have kept a lot of people happy for a long time."

Duprey said Lonon ended up on the short list due to Conroe's growth and development.

"We are looking for a person who can foster economic development, which Craig has done there. That is what this city needs and can finally afford."

Cedar Park's population is comparable to Conroe, with approximately 36,000 residents.

Conroe mayoral candidate Cathy Smith said she was surprised to hear the news, but then again, "with one candidate running on the platform that he is going to fire someone, I think it is very wise to look for another job."

If Smith is elected and Lonon is still in Conroe, she holds fast to her position to investigate any questionable activities on his part, discuss it in executive session and make a decision based on the outcome.

Mayoral candidate Frank Denton said he also learned of Lonon's interview Friday and did not offer any direct comment.

However, he has campaigned on keeping personnel matters confidential, but holding people accountable for their actions.

James Mitchell, who is also running for mayor, classified Lonon's search as "a good thing."

"If Craig Lonon leaves, it's a plus for the city as well as himself," he said. "I am running on new faces, new voices and new ideas.

"But whether Lonon stays or leaves, there are still going to be some changes in that position. (The council and mayor) are going to be a lot more involved."